# XI explained — Sense and Sensibility

> Chapter companion for Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Elinor observes the deepening attachment between Marianne and Willoughby, while she finds intellectual companionship only in Colonel Brandon, who hints at a past disappointment in love. Mrs. Dashwood indulges the young couple's open affection, and Elinor struggles with the lack of stimulating society at Barton.

## Themes in this chapter

### Sense vs. Sensibility

Elinor's rational caution contrasts with Marianne's romantic impulsiveness, especially in their debate over second attachments and the propriety of concealing feelings.

### Romantic Idealism vs. Reality

Marianne's belief that second attachments are impossible is challenged by Colonel Brandon's hinted past sorrow, suggesting that real life often contradicts youthful ideals.

### Propriety and Social Conduct

Elinor's attempts to advise Marianne on self-command highlight the tension between social expectations and personal expression of affection.

## Character check-ins

### Elinor Dashwood

Serves as the primary observer; she finds Colonel Brandon the only stimulating companion and worries about Marianne's lack of propriety.

### Marianne Dashwood

Openly devoted to Willoughby, she abhors concealment and dismisses Elinor's suggestions of self-command.

### Colonel Brandon

Finds consolation in conversing with Elinor; his words hint at a past unhappy love, deepening Elinor's compassion.

### John Willoughby

Constantly in Marianne's company, he shares her views on unreserved affection and openly shows his admiration.

### Mrs. Dashwood

Warmly enters into Marianne and Willoughby's feelings, seeing their behavior as the natural result of strong affection.

### Lady Middleton

Described as insipid and reserved, she contributes little to conversation and is chiefly occupied with her children.

## Key lines

> Your sister, I understand, does not approve of second attachments.

Colonel Brandon remarks that Marianne seems to disapprove of falling in love more than once.

_This exchange reveals Marianne's romantic idealism and hints at Brandon's own painful history._

> Her systems have all the unfortunate tendency of setting propriety at nought; and a better acquaintance with the world is what I look forward to as her greatest possible advantage.

Elinor believes Marianne's principles disregard social propriety and hopes that experience will teach her better.

_Elinor's sensible perspective contrasts with Marianne's romanticism, underscoring the novel's central tension._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se/chapters/xi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/sense_and_sensibility_se/chapters